George Frideric Handel - Messiah (Peter Whelan)

Information

Composer: George Frideric Handel

• Messiah, HWV 56

Hilary Cronin; Helen Charlston; Alexander Chance

Nathan Mercieca; Guy Cutting

Frederick Long; Edward Grint

Irish Baroque Orchestra and Choir

Peter Whelan, conductor

Date: 2026

Label: Linn Records

_____________________

For the first time, the Irish Baroque Orchestra, under Artistic Director Peter Whelan, has recorded Handel’s Messiah, a signature work and annual highlight of the ensemble’s repertoire. Remarkably, this is the first historical-instrument recording of the oratorio by an Irish ensemble, honoring its 1742 Dublin premiere. Joining the orchestra, the Irish Baroque Choir and soloists—including Hilary Cronin, Helen Charlston, Alexander Chance, Nathan Mercieca, Guy Cutting, Frederick Long, and Edward Grint—recreate the original atmosphere, celebrating the premiere that established Handel’s enduring success in the city and tracing the roots of this iconic masterpiece.

Peter Whelan is a leading figure in historical performance, acclaimed as a conductor, keyboardist, and solo bassoonist. He serves as Artistic Director of the Irish Baroque Orchestra and is the founding Artistic Director of Ensemble Marsyas. Whelan has collaborated with major ensembles, including the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra, Academy of Ancient Music, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, The English Concert, and Beethoven Orchester Bonn. Renowned for championing neglected Baroque repertoire, he has recreated eighteenth-century Dublin and Edinburgh music in award-winning projects such as Edinburgh 1742 and the Irish State Musick reconstruction. Praised for his insight, style, and charisma, Whelan’s performances demonstrate elegance, energy, and historical authenticity.